Grazing the Net

Our editors spend some time roaming the web looking for stuff cattle people and others in agriculture might find useful or entertaining.

It’s What Bernanke Didn’t Say…

Jul 17, 2013

The Fed chief is testifying today, saying for the time being, the Fed will continue to help the economy along with low interest rates and bond purchases. But he also scolded lawmakers for their lack of fiscal policy decisions, such as the debt ceiling, says CBS News. Well, Mr. B., those of us in ag feel the same way when it comes to policy decisions, such as the farm bill.

Plainview’s Good News

It’s the best news the town of Plainview has heard in the last several months – the Labor Department has granted a $2.1 million request for job training and other employment services. We just hope there’s a few people left in the town to take advantage of the grant after Cargill closed its packing plant there. Here’s the scoop from Amarillo.com.

Sad Day in India

We often make light of regulations and politics here. But after reading about 20-plus school children who died soon after eating their government-funded school lunch, we think everyone understands the need for a balanced approach, and undoubtedly a safe food supply.

You Ate Your QR!

More and more beef suppliers are opening the doors of transparency when it comes to humane handling. According to QSR, Meyer Natural Foods has launched a program of their own, guaranteeing the wellbeing of their beef prior to harvest.

A California sushi exec is taking this one step further, adding an edibleQR code to show fish eaters where their fish came from, says the Grist.

That leads us to the lawsuit against the USDA regarding meat labeling. The Billings Gazette offers this take, but perhaps those who make their living growing meat need to do a better job explaining the problems with COOL. Does it look like we’re hiding something?

Keeping a Hawk-eye on the Governor

Coffee, sans Sandwich

Starbucks may have great coffee, but their choice in ham suppliers was anything but celestial. After reports of spoiled sandwiches and meat containing "harmful bacteria," the coffee chain cut ties with Wellshire Farms. Now they are suing them. The Daily Meal reports.

Your Part of History

For those of you who wake up every morning and say, "I wish my story could be in the Smithsonian," now’s your chance.